Photographed by Tommy Amato
While it is undeniable that the modeling industry has scrapped and addressed practices that promote harmful beauty standards, more significant strides are yet to be made as numerous of its institutions and approaches are still actively exerting pressure on its target market to conform to conventions and discriminating against those who do not fit the mold. Models, in particular, suffer from the ongoing and widespread preference for certain body weights, types, and more, a harsh reality that Johanne Vanessa Moise hopes to counter as the founder of Jamila Reine Models.
The move to establish Jamila Reine Models was a decision influenced by the awareness of the power of agencies to enable success for aspirants. In managing the model Jacqueline Lockhart and helping her land the cover of her first magazine, Johanne Vanessa Moise realized that companies could open so many doors of opportunities for the clients under their wing. But, most importantly, she became intimately privy to the struggles that countless hopefuls in the industry have to face. “Many modeling managements discriminate and exclude models who are of a different weight, race, etc.,” she shared. “Some even make models pay thousands of dollars, only to underdeliver.”
Highly fueled by the drive to provide a space where everyone can feel comfortable in their own skin, Johanne Vanessa Moise launched JRM Management. Through this brainchild of hers, she intends to maneuver clients in the right direction and propel them to greater heights without breaking their banks.
Currently, this Black-owned business assists with finding and booking appropriate and professional jobs on behalf of their models, closing the gap between its clients and the print, commercial, and fashion show opportunities that they want. Additionally, Jamila Reine Models goes the extra mile by providing services that can boost the careers and growth of its models, including coaching classes and training.
Under the leadership of Johanne Vanessa Moise, JRM Management also places a heavy premium not only on delivering an impressive host of services but also on making sure that every model feels supported in their journey toward the limelight. By welcoming people, regardless of their body weight, type, and race, and incorporating practices that foster inclusivity and body positivity, it manages to cultivate a sense of belonging among its models. It has also now been announced that she has officially given the company over to new owner, Shantae Menendez.
Right now, Jamila Reine Models serves as the home of a long list of aspiring and established models in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. So far, it has provided tailored services to every model in its roster, paving their path toward the forefront of the fashion and modeling industry. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, it has also succeeded in connecting its models with the job they need to reach the next level of their careers.
In the years to come, Johanne Vanessa Moise hopes to expand her company and transform it into a full-fledged global agency, one that would make a positive difference in the world of beauty and fashion.
